What to Do After an Auto Accident

The inconvenience of dealing with a damaged car, traffic citations, and liability issues, combined with missing an important appointment or work, can make an auto accident a very overwhelming experience. In 2010, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were over 2.24 million crashes with injuries in the United States. Since 1950, fatal car crashes have been on the decline, hitting an all-time low in 2010. Even with fatal car accidents on the decline, however, most drivers will be involved in some sort of accident at least once in their lifetime. Accidents happen, and it is important to know what to do after an auto accident so you are prepared when they do.

Don’t Leave The Scene

After an automobile accident, no matter how insignificant it seems, never, ever leave the scene of the wreck. Insurance information must be exchanged and law enforcement must be notified. If you don’t stop, you will have committed a crime and could get arrested for leaving the scene of an accident.

Make Sure To Call The Police

There are many people who believe that it is not necessary to call 911 if the wreck wasn’t serious or if no one was hurt. This is not a good idea. Around one in seven drivers doesn’t have car insurance, and many are dodging the system by carrying an expired or fake insurance card. If a police report is not filed to document the wreck, there will be no proof that an accident actually happened. Do yourself a favor and file an auto accident report. Without a proper report, it is practically impossible to receive an auto accident settlement.

Always Get The Proper Documentation

After a wreck, it is important to properly document the incident and gather the other motorist’s insurance information. Giving law officials an accurate and consistent account of what happened will help the insurance companies and police figure out who was at fault, if any one.

Knowing what to do after an auto accident can aid in the efficiency and accuracy of its resolution, as well as help decrease the stress felt during such an event. Always remember to keep a cool head, never leave the scene, and always get the proper documentation. If you are ever involved in an accident, it is a good idea to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and ensure evidence is preserved in the event that you end up filing a lawsuit for damages. Call(949) 582-1544 todayfor a FREE consultation with an experienced accident attorney at Skorina Law Group.